Atiku Abubakar says his son Abba’s switch to APC is a personal choice, stressing he won’t coerce family or Nigerians in politics
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has described his son Abba Abubakar’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a “personal decision.”
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Abba recently endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid in the 2027 elections, sparking public discussion on the intersection of family and politics.
Atiku, the PDP presidential candidate in 2023, stated that his son’s move was “neither unusual nor alarming.”
In a social media post on January 15, 2026, Atiku reaffirmed his commitment to democratic principles, emphasising that he would not coerce his children—or any Nigerian—into political alignment.
“As a democrat, I do not coerce my own children in matters of conscience, and I certainly will not coerce Nigerians,” he wrote.
The former vice president also reiterated his concerns about the APC’s governance, describing the party’s policies as having caused “severe economic and social hardships” for Nigerians. He pledged to continue working with like-minded citizens to restore good governance and provide an alternative that “brings relief, hope, and progress.”
Public reactions to Atiku’s statement were mixed. Supporters praised his democratic stance, while critics questioned his leadership and the implications of his son joining a party he has openly criticised.
Abdul-Aziz Na’ibi Abubakar called Atiku “a true democrat,” noting he did not force his children into political decisions. Conversely, Daniel Reghal questioned the contradiction of criticizing the APC while his son joined it.
ToksAsherYoung and Abrigo Efemena Anthony highlighted concerns about household control and decision-making.
Also read: Rivers Lawmakers Reverse Stand, Back Fubara Impeachment
Abba Abubakar’s defection continues to fuel discussions on loyalty, political strategy, and family dynamics within Nigerian politics.
